Deeper look: The survey will probe social issues, including how the police treat people who use drugs. Photo: Sushil Kumar Verma
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Sushil Kumar Verma
The Crime Branch of India (CBI) and the Special Operations Group (SOG) conducted a series of coordinated raids across Ahmedabad over the past week and recovered narcotics worth over ₹1 crore , registered 21 cases, and arrested 25 persons, police said on Wednesday (December 24, 2025).
Large quantities of mephedrone (MD), ganja, and charas were recovered during the operation . Officials described the drive as part of a zero-tolerance approach aimed at dismantling drug networks operating at all levels, from suppliers to street-level peddlers.
Police said the joint action marked a strategic shift in enforcement, with investigators placing special emphasis on tracing narco-finance networks. Efforts are underway to track money trails, identify laundering channels and freeze assets linked to drug syndicates, with the objective of crippling their financial backbone and preventing regrouping, they said.
“Unlike earlier operations that focused mainly on bulk consignments, the current drive also targets small quantities of narcotics. Officials said this approach is intended to disrupt local distribution points that fuel addiction, particularly among youth,” officials said.
Rehabilitation for addicts
At the same time, the Crime Branch clarified that a different approach is being adopted towards drug peddlers and addicts. While traffickers and repeat offenders will face strict legal action, addicts willing to seek treatment will be encouraged to enter rehabilitation.
Police pointed out that under Section 64A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, an addict charged with offences involving small quantities or consumption under Section 27 may be granted immunity from prosecution if they voluntarily undergo de-addiction treatment at a government-recognised institution.
The Crime Branch has appealed to families and individuals affected by substance abuse to come forward and seek medical help, stressing that rehabilitation, not incarceration, remains the priority for those who want to quit drugs.
Officials said the joint operations would continue in the coming days as part of sustained efforts to rid the city of narcotics and dismantle organised drug networks operating in and around Ahmedabad.
Published – December 24, 2025 09:16 pm IST
